Cabin rentals with hot tubs in Hot Springs

Generations of visitors have been drawn to this rural North Carolina community for its namesake mineral springs — the only natural ones in the state. However, Hot Springs has more to offer than its famous rejuvenating waters. It also makes for an excellent jumping-off point to explore the surrounding Pisgah National Forest and Harmon Den Wildlife Management Area, which bring outdoorsy types looking to river raft, kayak, and hike. You can also hike the fabled Appalachian Trail here — Hot Springs is the only community in North Carolina that the trail passes through. If you’re looking for big city day trips, you can get to Asheville, North Carolina, in less than an hour and Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1.5 hours.

The eastern temperate climate of Hot Springs comes with moderate swings in conditions throughout the year, bringing four distinct seasons, each with its own set of weather patterns. The summers here tend to be hot and humid, with regular rainfall. Winters bring colder temperatures that can get below freezing, with occasional snowfall blanketing the frozen landscape. Spring and fall are popular times to book a cabin in Hot Springs, as the vibrant flowers of spring and earthen fall hues bring seasonal color to the region. The brisk temperatures during these shoulder seasons can make for excellent hiking conditions.

Hot Springs hosts several events and celebrations throughout the year. Trailfest kicks off the hiking season in May with spaghetti dinners and live music for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. The French Broad River Festival in October hosts live music, craft vendors, rafting, bike races, and costumed parades in celebration of the region’s artistic communities.

Lovers Leap Loop

This moderately difficult and frequently trafficked 1.5-mile trail can be accessed from downtown Hot Springs and is one of the area’s more popular hikes. Winding through waterside stands of hickory and up the Lovers Leap Ridge, the trail culminates in a beautiful overlook of the town, the French Broad River, and the surrounding area.

Rich Mountain Fire Tower

This historic lookout tower was once used to spot wilderness fires and aid in firefighting efforts. Hike in 2.5 miles along a section of the Appalachian Trail to reach the site, and then climb the 31-foot tower to take in vistas of the rolling and forested Big Laurel Creek Gorge.

French Broad Whitewater Rafting

The local section of the French Broad River is popular with kayakers and rafters. Winding curves, rocky waves, and turbulent rapids are found along the river, which travels through the oak-hickory woods of Pisgah National Forest. Outfitters on the North Carolina and Tennessee sides of the border offer trips catering to all experience levels.